How to Store Pet Bedding

Extra pet bedding — spare dog bed covers, blankets, seasonal beds, and throws — takes up significant space if not stored properly. Proper storage keeps bedding clean, fresh, and protected from pests until it's needed. Here's how to store pet bedding effectively.

Why Proper Pet Bedding Storage Matters

• Cleanliness: Improperly stored bedding accumulates dust, dander, and pests between uses.
• Freshness: Sealed storage prevents musty odors from developing in stored bedding.
• Space efficiency: Compressed storage bags dramatically reduce the space bulky bedding takes up.
• Pest protection: Sealed containers prevent moths, mice, and insects from nesting in stored fabric.

Step 1: Wash Before Storing

Always wash pet bedding thoroughly before storing it. Storing bedding with pet dander, hair, or odors allows bacteria and mold to develop during storage. Wash on a hot cycle with white vinegar in the rinse cycle, and dry completely before storing.

👉 Recommended: Lucy's Family Owned Natural Distilled White Vinegar, 1 Gallon — add to rinse cycle to neutralize pet odors before storage.

Step 2: Choose the Right Storage Container

Large Zippered Storage Bags (Best for Bedding)

Large zippered storage bags with clear windows are ideal for pet bedding. They compress bulky items, keep contents visible, protect from dust and pests, and stack neatly on closet shelves.

👉 Recommended: Lifewit 3-Pack 90L Clothes Storage Bins with Lids, Clear Window and Reinforced Handles — foldable, zipper closure, clear window for easy identification, reinforced handles. 90L capacity fits large dog beds and multiple blankets.

Vacuum Storage Bags (For Maximum Space Saving)

Vacuum storage bags compress bedding to a fraction of its original size — ideal for small closets or storing large quantities of seasonal bedding. Use a standard vacuum to remove air after sealing.

Step 3: Label Everything

Label each storage bag or bin with:

• Contents (e.g., "Dog bed cover – large", "Cat blankets")
• Pet name if you have multiple pets
• Date stored

This makes it easy to find the right item quickly without opening every bag.

Step 4: Choose the Right Storage Location

• Linen closet: Ideal — cool, dry, and accessible.
• Under-bed storage: Works well for flat storage bags with low-profile bedding.
• Closet shelf: Stack labeled bags vertically for easy access.
• Avoid: Garages, basements, and attics — temperature and humidity fluctuations promote mold and pest activity.

Seasonal Bedding Rotation

Rotate pet bedding seasonally:

• Summer: Lightweight, breathable bedding in use; store heavy winter beds.
• Winter: Warm, insulating beds in use; store lightweight summer bedding.

Wash stored bedding before bringing it back into use each season — even clean stored bedding benefits from a fresh wash after months in storage.

Storing Pet Bed Foam Inserts

Foam inserts from dog beds are bulky and difficult to compress. Store in a large zippered bag to protect from dust and pests. If space is very limited, consider donating foam inserts you won't use and replacing them when needed — foam inserts are relatively inexpensive.

Final Thoughts

The Lifewit 90L storage bins are our top pick for pet bedding storage — the clear window makes identification easy, the zipper closure keeps contents protected, and the large capacity handles even oversized dog beds. Always wash before storing and label clearly for a system that stays organized long-term.